This year, we decided to do something different.

Instead of telling you why we think canal boating is romantic, we’re letting our guests do the talking. Over the years, we’ve received messages, reviews and emails that read less like feedback and more like love letters. Not just to Fox Narrowboats, but to the boats themselves, the waterways, and the feeling of a slower pace of life.

Fox day boat hire – explorer

So this Valentine’s Day, here are a few love letters from the water.

Love Letters to the Boat

Some guests write about the boat as if it were a trusted friend. A place where everything finally feels simple.

fox canal boat day – explorer

For many couples, stepping aboard a Fox narrowboat is the moment they truly switch off. The kettle goes on, the engine hums into life with a gentle vibration, and suddenly the outside world feels very far away.

“Just had the best week on the Rural Fox. Would recommend this to everyone. Great Staff, Great boat, Great countryside. We will be back one day.” – Kellee and Kris

Moments like this are exactly what many guests remember long after they step back onto dry land.

Whether it’s a short break or a leisurely cruise, our boats are designed to feel welcoming, calm and easy to enjoy together.

“We thoroughly enjoyed our day trip for my daughter’s 30th birthday. Excellent communication from Fox Narrowboats. Plenty of crockery and cutlery on board, milk, tea, coffee and biscuits provided and even a birthday card. We did the 7.5 hour round trip to Outwell so that we could pass through the lock.” – Christina

It’s often the thoughtful details that turn a good trip into a memorable one.

Some guests are surprised by just how much they enjoy the experience.

“Although I’ll never do this again, it was brilliant. This boat was a year old and kitted out beautifully. Two bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. Fully loaded kitchen… the meals we were able to cook…mwah!

The people at Fox Narrowboats were lovely smiling people. Their happiness was contagious. They even let you pre-order to have a Tesco delivery loaded on board.

It’s a very lovely setup for beginners and experienced narrowboaters. I am ex-navy, familiar intimately with water, but this is something completely different.” – Joh L.R

For many first-time narrowboaters, it’s an experience that exceeds expectations in ways they didn’t anticipate.

Love Letters to Each Other

Then there are the messages that are really about togetherness.

Canal boating has a lovely way of encouraging teamwork. One steers, one works the lock. One cooks, one pours the wine. There’s time to talk, time to laugh, and time to simply sit side by side watching the world drift past.

fox narrowboat – red wine & cheese anyone?

“We had a wonderful day out in Adventurer. This was a 70th birthday present for my dad and the whole family, including our skipper, would highly recommend this fun activity. The boat was clean and had everything we needed. As beginners we took a simpler route and were well instructed both before our booking and on the day. We are hoping to make this an annual family day.” – Kerstin

Shared experiences like these often become traditions that families return to year after year.

“Absolutely amazing adult (and doggos) family day out with Fox Narrowboat’s day hire. Brilliant organisation and communication. Helpful and knowledgeable staff. Cannot recommend enough!” – Joanne

Time spent together on the water often creates memories that last far beyond the day itself.

Without packed itineraries or constant distractions, couples often tell us they rediscover the pleasure of time to notice things together. Long breakfasts. Lazy walks. Conversations that don’t have to fit around anything else.

“We had a lovely family trip on one of the guided tours. The chap who took us was very welcoming, friendly and very informative. Thank you.” – Lynda

Sometimes it’s the simplest days that stay with us the longest.

Love Letters to the Waterways

And of course, some love letters are written to the landscape itself.

Morning narrowboat mooring Chris Howes

The Fen waterways offer wide skies, peaceful moorings and the kind of quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. Days unfold gently, punctuated by birdsong, the creak of ropes, and the promise of a cosy pub lunch just around the bend.

“Just come off a week’s trip re-exploring the Nene! Travelled up from March and got as far to just beyond Wadenhoe. Already booked two weeks for next year…. just see where that will take us.

Regarding Fox Narrowboats, I cannot recommend them highly enough. The service and boats they offer are second to none! If you want to get out on the water, try them!” – Southbourne Bowling Club

For many guests, the waterways themselves become part of the story they want to return to.

Cruising near Ely and Cambridge offers the perfect balance of rural calm and historic charm. Hand in hand walks along the towpath, cobbled streets, riverside cafés, and sunsets that seem to last just a little longer when you’re on the water.

Why Love Letters Matter

Reading through these messages, a pattern emerges. They’re rarely about grand gestures or extravagant plans. They’re about time. Space. And the freedom to slow down, together.

Houghton Mill – CC SA 3.0 Cmglee

A narrowboat holiday doesn’t try to impress. It simply creates the conditions for connection. And perhaps that’s why so many of our guests find themselves writing to us afterwards, trying to capture a feeling they didn’t quite expect.

Write Your Own Love Letter

If you’re looking for a Valentine’s idea that’s thoughtful, memorable and a little different, a canal boat holiday might be the perfect place to start. Whether it’s a romantic short break for two, or a relaxed day hire with people you love, Fox Narrowboats offer the space to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Even when the weather isn’t perfect, time on the water has its own charm.

“Fab day out on the Cambridgeshire Fens on a narrow boat. Not even the rain could put a damper on the day!” – David

This Valentine’s Day, you don’t have to say it with roses. You can say it with time.

And maybe write your own love letter from the water.

Check out our short breaks or day hire deals near Ely and Cambridge.

Hey! New here? Click ‘Blog’ (top right) and select ‘Follow Blog’ in the sidebar to receive more articles about the Fenland waterways and local history. We never share email addresses. Just local knowledge, every two weeks.

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who shares her memoir-style writing and poetry at Life, Locks and Literature.

Photo credits: Fox Narrowboats, Chris Howes, Houghton Mill – CC SA 3.0 Cmglee

The post Love Letters from the Water: A Valentine’s Day Special appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Can you imagine taking a serene journey along Cambridgeshire’s picturesque waterways with Fox Narrowboats? From the tranquil morning mist lifting off the canal, to the vibrant sunset over the water, you can explore a typical day aboard a narrowboat. You’ll discover the great feeling of leisurely cruising, being the skipper of your own boat, and the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you’ll take in the sights, and get a glimpse into the unique narrowboat lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the canals, join us for a peaceful and inspiring adventure with Fox Narrowboats.

The day begins at 9.30am as you arrive at our marina for some basic instruction with our friendly staff, in steering and handling a narrowboat. We have two colourfully painted day boats; the March Adventurer, and the March Explorer, and either boat can accommodate ten passengers (and your dog if you have one!) Day boat hire is popular for family get-togethers. Here’s what Rebecca wrote on Tripadvisor:

“Lovely day out! We really enjoyed ourselves. Would highly recommend for young families. What could be better than cruising down the river in a narrowboat? Thank you!” – Rebecca (June 2024)

Our hire boat base is in the charming Fenland market town of March, so you may begin by starting the engine, untying the ropes, and cruising through March, before stopping for breakfast. Try The Acre riverside pub if it’s the weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) or Ye Olde Griffin Hotel any day of the week, turning right from the town centre moorings.

If you continue your journey past the Twenty Foot junction you will see the impressive Coldham Wind Farm. When you reach Pophams Eau junction, take a right towards Three Holes junction, where you’ll find a good spot to moor.

This boating route is good for seeing wildlife, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and letting the kids try their hand at some net fishing. On your way back to March, relax with a drink overlooking the moorings at The Ship Inn, or indulge in some afternoon tea at the Exchange Tea Parlour. (Afternoon tea options include a Classic, Gin, Sparkling, Deluxe, Gluten Free, Vegan, Cheese Lovers’ and Children’s.)

This route includes about four hours of cruising time, so there is plenty of time to stop and enjoy time “on the bank”. You will be returning to the marina by 6.00pm.

You may also like to celebrate a relationship milestone or a significant birthday on board. Jill says, “The whole day was an amazing adventure, they took us through the information needed, unrushed and easy to grasp, all correspondence was spot on, detailed and efficient. The boat was great, equipment was great. Very clean and well kept. A perfect birthday out on the river. I highly recommend this company for your boating trips. Lovely people and so kind and gentle. We will definitely be back again next year. The food they recommended was fabulous too. All delivered ready for our trip.” – reviewed September 2023.

Fox Narrowboats Reviews

Google Reviews

If you’re celebrating a special occasion Glam Grazing can supply afternoon tea, antipasti, or a cheese lovers graze box. Alternatively, try a sweet treat box with Prosecco. More catering choices here: Glam Grazing by Gem.

An alternative route to the boat trip above, is cruising west to Floods Ferry where you will cross the Meridian line and reach the junction of the Old River Nene and Whittlesey Dyke. Carry on the Old River Nene (left hand fork) to moor at Benwick and visit the Five Alls pub, where muddy paws and boots are welcome!  This is such a great route for a picnic, wildlife spotting and net fishing with children.  There is also a small playground in the High Street. This cruise also takes about four hours. For a slightly longer journey (six hours return) head towards Whittlesey to experience the fun of operating a lock together.

Read more about: Day boat hire routes.

Read more about day boat hire.

Our full waterways map

Fox Narrowboats offers a relaxing ‘Day in the Life’ experience for both seasoned boaters and newcomers. Your route may include a breakfast stop, stunning views of a wind farm, and opportunities for wildlife spotting and net fishing. Grab a pub lunch, an afternoon tea, or a grazing box from Glam Grazing. Finally, upon your return at 6.00pm you can reflect on the memories of a peaceful and inspiring day on the water. Don’t forget to take photos!

Our day boat hire is available to book online on boats March Adventurer and March Explorer. Alternatively call our friendly reception staff who will advise and help you book. But book soon, because our day boats are popular at weekends especially in the summer months.

Don’t miss more articles about what to see and do when narrowboating in the Fens: Sign up to follow this blog in the sidebar on the right.

The post A Day in the Life: Experience the Serenity of Fox Narrowboats’ Routes appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Save 10% on 2024 day hires

Quiet rural moorings and historic waterside pubs make narrowboat day hire the perfect romantic getaway. Fox Boats offer day boat hire near Ely and Cambridge for up to ten people, on the March Adventurer or the March Explorer. This gives couples the chance to escape on board their own private canal boat, or take family and friends along to celebrate an engagement, anniversary or another important relationship milestone. You can even bring your dog! There is plenty of seating both inside and outside the boat, and a see-through cover at the front protects passengers from any occasional rain showers.

If you hire a boat for the day you can enjoy a peaceful cruise along the east Anglian waterways, getting close to nature under the wide Fenland skies. Look out for kingfishers beside the river, and animals grazing in the fields while you’re getting away from the fast pace of modern life.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, or even planning a marriage proposal, we can arrange delicious food platters to be available on board, from Grazing by Gem. Choose from a traditional afternoon tea, a gentleman’s afternoon tea or a selection of graze boxes.

On board the narrowboat you will find the galley equipped with a hob, fridge and sink, so that you can enjoy snacks and hot drinks while you travel. There is a convenient Tesco and other shops in March, before you set off. There is a dinette and seating area inside the boat. There is also a toilet on board.

Romantic Destinations

Cruising east through the town of March you can pass the windfarm and visit the picturesque villages of Upwell and Outwell. Church Bridge moorings are a great place to stay for a lunch for two. There are also idyllic moorings at Outwell Basin, which is convenient for The Crown (pub) and The Crown Lodge Hotel. Treat your partner to an afternoon tea here, or an intimate meal in the award-winning restaurant.

Church Bridge moorings

Alternatively, travelling west towards Peterborough, past Floods Ferry Marina Park you can reach Ashline Lock and Whittlesey; an ancient market town with an interesting maze of streets. Whittlesey offers limited moorings at the back of a leisure centre and only a short walk from the historic market place. There are two beautiful churches to visit, and a range of restaurants and takeaways.

Our day boats are really popular at weekends so book early if that’s your preferred time to get away. But they are also available on weekdays. If this is your first time narrowboating we will show you the basics. We’re a friendly family-run business, so you can ask us any questions you like, before you set off.

So, create special memories together with the one you love and take lots of happy-couple photos on a day out on a narrowboat this year.

We are spreading the love for Valentine’s Day. From now until 16th February 2024 you can save 10% off our 2024 day hires.

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for days out in Cambridgeshire, enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your inbox. (We never share or sell email addresses; this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

The post This Valentines Offer is a Romantic Idea for Couples appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Are you looking for the best gift ideas this year?

Does your mum deserve to get away from it all?

Want to surprise her with a family day out?

This year Mothering Sunday is on March 19^th and our annual boating season begins in April, so you can book a day trip in advance and surprise your mum with the news on Mother’s Day. Boating appeals to all ages and is a great way to bring the family together.

1) Day Boat Hire

Our colourfully painted luxury day boats, The March Adventurer and the March Explorer, are both equipped a small galley, a toilet and a seating area. On board you’ll also find a 12v mobile phone charging point, so that you can keep taking pictures of mum’s day out as you travel.

You and your crew will be fully trained in boat handling as part of the boat handover. One of our qualified instructors will explain how to steer the boat and operate the locks ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident before you set off. Day boat hire is a popular choice with families wanting to spend the day together to celebrate a special occasion. Making memories together can sometimes be the best gift.

2) Canal Boat Holiday

If you really want to push the boat out you could book a week on board with the family.

Read: Why Narrowboating is the Perfect Family Holiday

Although a holiday is not exactly the traditional Mothers Day gift, it will be a good opportunity to spoil your mum, and show her that she is appreciated; especially if the crew share the chores on board and take turns at cooking meals. On a longer cruise you would have time to visit Peterborough, Ely or Cambridge. If you stop at the visitor moorings on the waterfront in Ely, mum can visit the antiques centre, the city centre shops, the famous Ely Cathedral and the museum at Oliver Cromwell’s House.  Or in Cambridge she may enjoy shopping, restaurants and punting, while admiring the incredible architecture.

Get into your mum’s good books this year by suggesting that her favourite people get together for a memorable trip on the Fenland waterways.

3) Boating Books

Talking of books, that’s another good idea for a gift! If she dreams of a life aboard, or has already lived aboard a canal boat in the past, there are some great books about parenting on board. From historical novels to a modern travelogue through the French canals, the books in this article show various different aspects of boating with children.

Read: Five Surprising Mothers Day Gifts for the Narrowboat Mum

If she doesn’t want to read about parenting, try Favourite Boating Recipes by Cas Best instead, or the classic ‘Narrow Boat’ book by LTC Rolt. This lovely, lyrical diary of Tom and Angela’s travels back in 1939, has become a classic among canal-boat enthusiasts. Tom Rolt is now considered to be one of the pioneers of the leisure cruising industry on Britain’s inland waterways.

Read: Was This the Very First Narrowboat Holiday?

Whichever option you choose, giving your mum a narrowboat themed book, or experience, will make this Mothers Day a bit different this year and give her something to remember.

Day boat hire starts at £225 Search Day Boat Hire.

You may also like: 5 Memorable Things to See on a Day Boat Trip

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for days out in Cambridgeshire, enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in -box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

The post The Top 3 Mothers Day Ideas For The Narrowboat Mum appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Navigation planning on a Fox day boat

With September just around the corner and the children back to school, why not take a mid-week day afloat for some relaxation?

Taking a day off to go messing about in boats will boost your mental health and create special memories with your loved ones. Get up close to nature and take photos as you travel at a leisurely pace through the Middle Level in Cambridgeshire. A typical return boat journey will take six or seven hours, so it’s a chance to really slow down. Go with a group of friends for an unusual hen party or stag do, or celebrate a special family occasion. Our day boats carry up to 10 passengers, and everyone can have a go at steering.

A short train journey from Cambridge or London, you will find us in the Fenland market town of March. If this is your first time narrowboating we will show you the ropes. We’re a friendly family-run business, so you can ask us any questions before you set off. You can either cruise east towards the picturesque villages of Upwell and Outwell, or west through Ashline Lock to Whittlesey.

Our colourful day boats are the March Adventurer and the March Explorer. Both boats have a seating area and a toilet, and you will find the galley on board complete with hob, fridge, and a sink. Each boat has a dinette, equipped with crockery and cutlery so you can make snacks and hot drinks as you travel. (Grab food at Sainsbury’s or Iceland, in March, or at the riverside village store in Upwell.)

For a special occasion order food from Glam Grazing by Gem and it will be in the fridge on board when you arrive. Choose from a traditional afternoon tea, a gentleman’s afternoon tea or a selection of graze boxes. The Sweet Treat Box is perfect for a birthday as it includes Prosecco and a selection of homemade, freshly prepared cakes. There is also a children’s afternoon tea and a gluten free option.

There’s enough room on the boat for everyone to sit outside, and dogs are welcome.

Read: Canal Boating With Your Dog: The Ultimate Guide.

If it rains there is a see-through cover at the front of the boat, or you could take shelter in a cosy country pub along the way.

Enjoy the views, the heritage and the wildlife as you cruise on the water. Day boating customers have spotted kingfishers and other birds, and animals grazing in the fields as they drift lazily through the countryside.  If you like to stay active you can walk alongside the boat sometimes, and help with the locks.

Check out the stunning local scenery in this short video clip:

A mid-week break in September means you avoid the summer holiday crowds, and save money on the cost of boat hire. The autumn colours make the scenery quite idyllic at this time of year. The flat landscape allows you to travel under a panorama of big skies, perhaps passing through a mesmerising windfarm if you are headed to Outwell.

You may also like: 5 Memorable Things to See on a Day Boat Trip

There are some great offers available this September with some days reduced from £225 to £200. Search Day Boat Hire.

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for days out in Cambridgeshire, enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in -box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

Photo & Video Credit: Fox Narrowboats

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Are you looking for a special gift idea this Mothering Sunday?

Something more original than flowers or chocolates?

Something that she’ll remember for years to come?

A family boat trip on the Fenland Waterways could be just what you are looking for.

Cruise into your mum’s good books this year by suggesting that her favourite family members get together for an unforgettable day-trip to March, in Cambridgeshire.

Mothers Day and Mothering Sunday are actually separate celebrations, although they are held on the same day in the UK. Mothering Sunday is traditionally the fourth Sunday in lent that you return to your mother church within your area, while Mothers Day originated in the UK in the 1950’s, as a way to say thank you for all of the things that our mothers do for us.

In 2020 the day falls on Sunday March 22^nd, and the Fox boating season begins in April. If you book a day-trip now you could surprise your mum with the idea on Mothers Day. Boating appeals to all ages; so family members can be as active or relaxed as they like. You could bring a picnic, buy fish and chips, or find a pub or restaurant along the way.

Our day boats are equipped with a hob, fridge and sink, crockery and cutlery, a toilet and a seating area. On board you’ll also find a 12v mobile phone charging point, so that you can keep taking pictures of mum’s special day.

Before you set off, one of our qualified instructors will explain how to steer the boat and operate the locks, so you will be fully trained in boat handling.

“Eight of us hired a narrowboat here for a day this week. We absolutely loved it! Very helpful advice and instructions which we appreciated.

The boat itself is lovely, especially enjoyed being able to sit at the front and watch the world go by. There are cooking facilities on board (a hob) which we made good use of with bacon rolls in the morning! Well stocked with plates, cups, glasses, cutlery, frying pan and kettle.

We took a leisurely trip on the river and moored up at a public mooring spot and had a short walk to a pub (The Five Bells in Upwell) which was very pleasant. Also enjoyed mooring up later in the day for our dinner.

All eight of us thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and would happily hire again. Thanks for a lovely day!”

• Matt F on Trip Advisor.

A narrowboat travels at around three miles an hour, and our staff will help you to plan your route and timings before you set off.

The Fenland waterways in Spring time are really peaceful, with spectacular scenery. If you are used to the more touristy areas of England’s canals you may be surprised at how uncrowded our local navigations are, with long stretches of open water, and stunning vast sky-scapes.

This year, show your mum, gran, step-mother, or partner just how much you appreciate her, and make some treasured memories together.

Want to treat your mum to a day afloat this year? Check here for availability of boats and dates to suit you and buy a gift voucher.

Hey! Are you new here? Subscribe on the right to receive more secrets of the undiscovered Fenland waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

The post The Ultimate Mother’s Day Surprise appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Do you find that luxury cruises are just out of your price range?

Do you lack the funds for the lavish yachting holiday you deserve?

Are you still struggling to save for a boat of your own?

No problem! A narrowboat holiday on the Fenland Waterways is a low-cost solution to your waterways wishes.  These uniquely British boats are quirky, slim and specifically designed to navigate the inland waterways. Canal holidays offer very good value for money.

Boat-lovers searching for a convenient vacation this summer need look no further than Cambridgeshire to quench their thirst for adventure and discover some of England’s hidden treasures. If lavish boating holidays are beyond your budget we have several low cost alternatives for families, friends and couples on a budget.

1. Group Narrowboat Hire

If you want to enhance your relationships with your friends or family, suggest hiring a narrowboat as a group together. Some of our holiday boats sleep up to seven people, with all modern conveniences on board for your comfort. Make memories together, visiting quaint market towns, and mooring at country pubs, sharing picnics and meals out, and browsing ancient streets, cafes and shops. Self-catering in your own little gallery kitchen will save you more money; and fuel, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels are all included in the holiday cost.

2. Day Boat Hire

Want to spend even less? The March Adventurer and The March Explorer can accommodate up to 10 people for a day out, so bring along a group of people that you love, and even bring the dog if you like. There is lots seating at the front so everyone can enjoy the scenery and wildlife. In case of rain there is a see-through cover at the front and plenty of seating inside. Bring a picnic, or grab some fish and chips for an economical way to eat out in the countryside. Our day boats are very popular at weekends, especially in the summer, so be sure to book early. Prices start at just £160 depending on the time of year that you take the boat out.

3. Online Discounts

Booking a holiday online can often save you money. Search by price range, holiday type or boat on our Special Offers Page.  You could also try booking out of season. When the busy summer season is over we offer some very affordable bargain breaks. Also, it’s not too early to think about planning ahead for Spring 2020. The best priced deals are often the first to go, so save money by booking your canal boat holiday early. Our all-in price includes hire, damage waiver and fuel.

It might not have the glamour of a yacht, or the extravagance of a cruise ship, but narrowboat holidays come with the freedom to steer your own boat and plan your own itinerary.

With these three low-cost options ready and waiting, it’s time to take action. Check out our special offers today.

You may also like: How to Save Money on Your Narrowboat Holiday

Hey! Are you new here? Subscribe on the right to receive more holiday tips from the Fenland Waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

The post Boating on a Budget – 3 Low Cost Alternatives appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Are you looking for a unique idea for Mother’s Day?

Are you struggling to come up with a gift that is better than last years?

Want to show your mum, gran, step-mother, or the mother of your children just how much she means to you?

Day boat hire on the Fenland waterways offers the chance to treat that special someone to a most relaxing and memorable day. Invite up to ten members of your family along, to share in a day out cruising the waterways on a narrowboat.

This year Mothering Sunday is on March 31^st and our annual boating season begins the following week, so you can book a trip in advance and surprise your mum with the news on Mother’s Day. Boating brings the whole family together as it appeals to all ages. You can bring your own picnic and snacks, or stop at a waterside pub on the journey.

We have two luxury day boats available to hire: The March Adventurer and the March Explorer. They are both colourfully painted, and equipped with with a hob, fridge and sink, crockery and cutlery, a toilet and a seating area. On board you’ll also find a 12v mobile phone charging point, so that you can keep taking pictures with your phone.

Don’t worry if you’re new to boating. You will be fully trained as part of the boat handover routine. One of our RYA qualified instructors will explain how to steer the boat and operate the locks ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident before you set off.

“Having never done this before, we were amazed at just how easy it was – we were taken through the safety procedures by a lovely lady called Paula and then given a short demonstration as to how to start/stop/manoeuvre the narrowboat before being let loose on the water…

This is a great day out and a really different way of seeing the Fens from a totally different perspective. We especially liked that dogs are openly welcomed so we were able to bring along our furry friends. We will definitely do it again.”

– Paula J on Trip Advisor

It’s a leisurely day out as you only average around three miles an hour, so you won’t be travelling very far. Our friendly staff will help you to plan your route and timings before you set off. If you head for the twin villages of Upwell and Outwell you could book a table for lunch at the Crown Lodge in advance. Then relax with some drinks on the boat on your way back to the hire base.

If you’re used to cruising the canals you may find the Fens quite different to the rest of the waterways. There are very few locks and the navigation is managed by the Environment Agency instead of the Canal and Rivers Trust. You’ll also find it to be quite uncrowded with long stretches of open water. There is rarely another a boat in sight, just beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Want to treat your mum to a day afloat this year? Check here for availability of boats and dates to suit you.

Hey! Are you new here? Subscrday ibe on the right to receive more secrets of the undiscovered Fenland waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

The post Book a Boat Trip for a Mother’s Day Surprise appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Do you live in Peterborough, Wisbech, Ely or Huntingdon?

Want to get together with some friends and family?

Have you thought about hiring a narrowboat, just for a day?

A relaxing boat trip on the Cambridge river network could be just the thing you’re looking for.

Imagine exploring the wonders of the beautiful East Anglian waterways, on board a luxury day boat, with a group of your best friends. Some people choose the Fenland waterways for a special family gathering. Whoever you travel with, here are three great reasons for booking day boat hire in March this summer.

1) The Boat is Gorgeous

We have two luxury day boats available to hire: The March Adventurer and the March Explorer. They are colourfully painted, have a nostalgic charm, and you can chug along peacefully with up to ten people on board. (You can also bring your dog!) Each boat has a cute little galley area complete with a hob, fridge and sink, for making refreshments en route. There is also a dinette equipped with crockery and cutlery, a toilet and a seating area. On board you’ll find a 12v mobile phone charging point, so that you can keep taking pictures with your phone.

2) The Scenery is Stunning

You’ll find our hire boat base between the River Ouse and the River Nene, not far from Cambridge, and your cruising journey will take in local wildlife, kingfishers, flowers and quaint cottages.

If you meander through the Middle Level Navigations eastwards, towards the village of Upwell you’ll pass through the Marmont Priory lock before the village unfolds before you. Upwell really is one of the prettiest villages in the Fenlands. It will take you around six and a half hours to cruise there and back.

If you cruise west, towards Whittlesey and Peterborough, you’ll go through plenty of peaceful countryside, and pass Floods Ferry Marina Park. The route crosses the Greenwich Meridian before arriving at Ashline Lock and the ancient market town of Whittlesey.

3) The Choice of Food

At Whittlesey you can turn your boat above the lock, and picnic in Manor Fields before beginning the journey back to March. Read our best tips for a narrowboat picnic.

If you are planning a picnic you can do a food shop at Sainsbury’s or Iceland, near our hire boat base in March. If you are heading to Upwell you will find the village store on the riverside. Outwell’s village shop is a two minute walk from the river.

In Upwell you can stop to eat at The Five Bells, which has a beer garden. Their full menu is on their website: Five Bells Inn. Alternatively, carry on to Outwell basin for a picnic at the former junction of the Wisbech Canal. For a more lavish treat The Moorings Restaurant at The Crown Loge Hotel offers large group meals and afternoon tea. For both of these options we recommend advanced booking!

Back in March, The Acre is a popular riverside pub not far from our hire boat base. It’s known for its friendly staff, prompt service and warm friendly atmosphere. Shooters American dinner is also riverside and is a great treat for children and the young at heart.

Good Value

“We had a lovely day out starting off at March and arrived at Outwell just in time for a fish and chip supper from Stotts. The boat is well equipped with inside and outside seating. We were fortunate to have a lovely day out and our Captain Claire and mate Debs were great. We are hoping to do it again this year. Very good value for money. Would highly recommend.” – Karen K – Trip Advisor

Whether you’re a group of friends celebrating a special occasion, or a family getting together to mark an anniversary or milestone birthday, exploring these secret rivers and waterways will give you a wonderful day out.

Read more: Day Boat Hire near Cambridge and Ely

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The post Why You Should Hire a Narrowboat for the Day near Ely appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Do you wish your family spent more time together?

Want to get the kids away from gaming, and the adults away from their smart phones?

Then a day out on a narrowboat could be the unique gift you are looking for!

If you’d like to avoid tiring shopping trips looking for individual presents, why not treat the whole family to an unexpected boat outing? Our day hire vouchers for a trip on a narrowboat are for up to 10 people and make a wonderful Christmas gift.

Our marina, in the lovely Fenland market town of March, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful Cambridgeshire waterways. The navigable River Nene is ideal for pleasure boating. If you cruise east through the town of March towards the picturesque village of Upwell the journey will take you about six and a half hours. Alternatively if you decide to travel west you will pass Floods Ferry Marina Park and arrive at Ashline Lock and the town of Whittlesey.

Our self-drive day boat hire offers you the freedom to stop where ever and whenever the mood takes you, and you can let everyone have a turn at steering.

Our day boats are the March Adventurer and the March Explorer. Both boats have a seating area and a toilet, and you will find the galley complete with hob, fridge, sink, crockery and cutlery. There is enough room at the bow or stern so that everyone can be outside, and you can even bring your dog. We’re a family-run business offering a friendly service and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Get an idea of what you might see on your day out, in this short video clip: Day boat hire near Cambridge and Ely.

A day boat hire trip for up to 10 people can be taken* any midweek day between Easter and 30th September, excluding bank holidays, for £175. Tuition and lifejackets are included and there is no extra charge for fuel. A day hire voucher for a weekend day is just £200.

You can buy the voucher now and use it when the weather is warmer; this will give everyone time to synchronise their diaries! (Beyond your budget? Get the family to chip in and agree to make memories together in 2018.)

Buy now: Day Hire Vouchers

We hope this voucher idea solves some of your gift buying problems, and we wish you a very happy Christmas from everyone at Fox Narrowboats.

You may also like – Day Boat Hire: The Surprising Alternative to Punting in Cambridge

Get more ideas – Unique Christmas Gifts – for the Narrowboater who has Everything.

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* check availability

The post The Surprising Christmas Gift That the Whole Family Will Love appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.